Why are choice and self-determination important for individuals with disabilities?

Why are choice and self-determination important for individuals with disabilities?

• A. Because it reduces the need for support.
• B. Because it eliminates personal responsibility.
• C. Because they prevent feelings of uselessness that can occur when others do everything for them, and they promote independence and self-worth.
• D. Because it makes decisions for others possible.

Answer: (C)

Giving people with disabilities control over their own lives builds agency, dignity, and motivation. When someone can decide where to live, what activities to pursue, and how to spend their day, they practice important skills, take on responsibilities, and feel pride in their progress. This sense of autonomy helps prevent the helplessness that can come when others do everything for them, and it promotes independence and a stable sense of self-worth. Supports can and should be provided, but they are most effective when they align with the person’s preferences and goals and are guided by the person whenever possible. Self-determination isn’t about eliminating responsibility or about someone else making decisions for you; it’s about leading decisions with the person’s own choices and aspirations.

Giving people with disabilities control over their own lives builds agency, dignity, and motivation. When someone can decide where to live, what activities to pursue, and how to spend their day, they practice important skills, take on responsibilities, and feel pride in their progress. This sense of autonomy helps prevent the helplessness that can come when others do everything for them, and it promotes independence and a stable sense of self-worth. Supports can and should be provided, but they are most effective when they align with the person’s preferences and goals and are guided by the person whenever possible. Self-determination isn’t about eliminating responsibility or about someone else making decisions for you; it’s about leading decisions with the person’s own choices and aspirations.